PRESS RELEASE
Date: 30/12/2007    Release Ref: MFutsalClub024   Client Site: http://www.borofutsal.co.uk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Downing for President

Middlesbrough Futsal Club can today announce the signing of Boro and England winger Stewart Downing, as President.  The role will see Downing join the Club in an honorary position, just in time for 2008, which will see Middlesbrough play in the Northern Conference of the national league.

Boro Futsal Chairman, Damon Shaw, approached Downing in November and following a meeting at Rockliffe Park, Middlesbrough FC’s training HQ, Downing agreed to take on the role.

It is hoped that Middlesbrough’s joint top scorer will increase the profile of the growing sport in the area and attract more people to get involved.

Stewart Downing said: “I am absolutely delighted to be president of Middlesbrough Futsal Club.”

“When asked I had no hesitation.”

“I played Futebol de Salão [Futsal], when I was a young lad and always enjoyed it, so I know the kids in the community will benefit.”

Downing’s presidency was marked with a goal in Boro’s 2-1 win over Premier League leaders Arsenal, taking his tally to 4 for this season.

Damon said: “It had been part of my plan since I founded the club to get a local hero involved with the club.  Stewart was top of my list of potential candidates.  Being a local lad and an England international he is a perfect ambassador for the club.”

“He was really enthusiastic and had plenty of time for us.  He was down to earth and was especially interested in the charity and kids’ events.”

The announcement comes at a time when futsal’s influence on the English game of football has been a topic of discussion in the media.  England’s failure to qualify for EURO 2008 has caused people to look at the grassroots, and futsal, has been given much support by the media, as the way to improve our homegrown talent.  In Brazil they play futsal in their youth and this shows right through to the national team with gifted players throughout.

The national league starts in February next year and Boro are hopeful of being a founder member of the Northern Conference [Midlands and South are the other two conferences making up the national league].  To follow Boro Futsal in 2008 and to make sure you don’t miss out on updates go to www.BoroFutsal.co.uk and register.



Notes to editor:

For further information about Middlesbrough Futsal Club and futsal contact Damon Shaw on 07807 146 319 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
  Middlesbrough Futsal Club

website: www.borofutsal.co.uk